un, deux, trois, quatre, cinq
The phrase 'one, two, three, four, five' is translated into French as un, deux, trois, quatre, cinq.
This phrase represents the first five cardinal numbers used for counting in French.
How does it change in a sentence?
The number un can function as an article. When used this way, it must agree in gender with the noun it modifies. It becomes une when modifying a feminine noun.
Did you know?
- The French word cinq is a 'doublet' of the English word 'punch', meaning they both share the same distant linguistic ancestor.
- In France, people often count to three as un, deux, trois to coordinate a simultaneous action, similar to saying 'ready, set, go' in English.
- While un means 'one', the French word for 'unity' or 'union' is union, showing how the root of the number one builds the foundation for words about togetherness.
Example conversation
Nathan is teaching Léa how to count in French.
- NathanRépète après moi : un, deux, trois, quatre, cinq.Repeat after me: one, two, three, four, five.
- LéaUn, deux, trois, quatre, cinq ?One, two, three, four, five?
- NathanOui, c'est très bien, Léa !Yes, that's very good, Léa!
- LéaMerci, Nathan.Thank you, Nathan.
